Norman "Jamie " Muntner

Norman James Muntner, 64, of Milwaukee, passed away on November 7, 2023, in San Francisco, CA. He was born on April 6, 1959, in Milwaukee. Jamie, as he was called by his family and friends, was known for his love of music and his exceptional guitar skills. Jamie had a deep love for music, starting from a young age. He began playing the guitar at the tender age of 5 and continued to pursue his passion throughout his life.

Jamie’s musical journey began playing at church picnics as a young boy, participating in the battle of the bands during his high school years, and performing at numerous different venues around Milwaukee with his band Avalanche. After moving to California in the 80’s, he worked as the Assistant Director on the New Monkee’s in Los Angeles, and was often referred to as the “5th Monkee”. Jamie’s guitar skills were not only admired by his peers but also showcased in the band’s videos, where he would lay down some serious riffs on guitar and would play the keyboard.

In San Francisco, Jamie joined the Plastic Onion Band, a Beatles tribute band, where he continued to pursue his passion for music. They would often perform at the Chit Chat café in Pacifica, CA, sharing his love for music with the local community. His talent and dedication to his craft were evident in every performance.

Jamie’s love for music was only matched by his devotion to the Third Baptist Church in San Francisco, where he worked for over 27 years. The church was not just his place of employment; it became his extended family. During his lunch breaks, he would often retreat to the Golden Gate Park, playing his guitar and bringing joy to those around him.

Jamies memory will forever be cherished by his parents, Norman and Mary Lee Muntner, his sisters, Christy (Jeff) Handrich, Jennifer (Alan) Johnston, and his nieces and nephews, Brittany (Timothy) Malouff, Nicholas (Abby) Handrich, Sydney Handrich, Alexandra Pritchett, David (Amber) Pritchett, Isabella Johnston and Parker Johnston. He is further survived by many aunts, uncles, cousins, other relatives and many dear friends.

Jamie’s love for music and his contributions to the music scene will always be remembered. He leaves behind a legacy of passion and talent that will continue to inspire others.

Joyful and full of life, his laugh, quick wit and hugs will be missed. May his soul rest in peace, forever strumming the strings of his guitar in the heavens above.

We would love to have anyone whose life was touched by Jamie’s life to join us as we celebrate him. A graveside service will be held on April 6th, at 10:00am at Wisconsin Memorial, Brookfield WI. It will be followed by a celebration of life reception at the Water Street Brewery in Grafton, 1251 Gateway Drive, at 11:30.